Monday, June 18, 2012

the things I haven't shared

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For those of you that missed my news a while ago- we are moving back to my small hometown on the Oregon Coast at the end of June (actually next week). You can read about it here. But what I haven't shared is that while this adventure is exciting, it hasn't been without struggles and challenges along the way. We have spent months- actually years preparing for this big change in our lives. And the build up, the waiting, the saving $$ and preparing has required TONS of discipline, patience and LOTS of baby steps. Something that I am all TOO familiar with when it some to making dreams happen!

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I am here to tell you that while life may look beautiful and effortless in the blogosphere- all of the things that have taken place in my neck of the woods- the opportunities, the circumstances, the baby, the business and the changes have been slow (and often not so beautiful)! There have been tons of dead ends, lots of rejection (on the creative front), disappointment, personal and professional drama, even some heartbreak. I am here to tell you that following your heart, taking the road less traveled, quitting jobs, being an artist, embracing self employment, and leaving the things that are comfortable is not easy or romantic or whimsical- it is downright scary a lot of the time. But for us, we have decided that it is all worth it to be able to be able to embrace our passions and chase after the life that is calling to us.
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Back when we made the decision to start a family, the time came for use to really do some soul searching about the people (and parents) we want to grow into and about the kind of life we want to create for our family. We knew we wanted to simplify, we knew we wanted to make our own rules and we knew we wanted a life dedicated to putting family first. And when we welcomed Lucy, the day came when we decided to take some risks and work hard to make our dreams a reality. And just like everything else that happens over here, this road to our goals has taken time, so much time and hard work.

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What I haven't shared is that this transition- leaving California, our friends, our house and the life we worked so hard to create is terrifying and uncomfortable but in the most fabulous and exciting of ways! The time that it has taken for this dream to come true has felt like an eternity and what I have learned through it all is that change, goals or dreams don't always happen they way you planned, often they are scary, they don't always look beautiful and certainly don't happen overnight. But what I have also learned is that the reward is so much sweeter when there has been hard work, patience and dedication to the things that you believe in. And now as we take the leap, while I am scared, I am also SO encouraged and inspired to do whatever it takes to move towards our hopes and dreams!
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73 comments:

Carla said...

Best of luck for the future, and may all your dreams come true x

Fil said...

Fair play for being so honest Alisa. I've been self employed for many years now and have had lots of successes but just as many failures along the way. But it's been a journey I wouldn't change for anything.

Good luck to you all in your new adventure:)

Anonymous said...

Dear Alisa,

Thank you for sharing a bit of yourself with all the strangers in the bloggyblog world. Change is something exciting and scary at the same time yet so very rewarding.

The internet while so very awesome and helpful in some many ways can be quite deceiving as we only see a fraction of the person.

There is a disconnect between the reality of life and seems real, so, thank you! Thank you for sharing and know you are not alone in your feelings.

I wish you all the best in your new etndeavors.

clara said...

Thanks a lot for sharing with us your personal and deep feelings! Transitions are always hard and difficult, but with your way of thinking and living everything is going to be good!
Good luck and a big hug!

Sabine said...

Thank you, Alisa, for this honest post. For me it's more helpful than a only positive and beautiful one, because it feels more real. So thanks!

Tracie said...

Yes thank you for keeping it real Alisa! This is the good stuff - the true stories are the most inspiring!

Teddi said...

because that is real life. :)

Unknown said...

I resonate so deeply with this post. My husband and I just moved from Michigan to Connecticut this weekend. Im making an effort to give myself (and him) grace as we cultivate a new life & rhythm here. I wish you tremendous peace and great joy as you embark on this new journey and chapter in your life! xoxo

Barnicles said...

beautiful. thank you for sharing. x
the truth is real and your right, more work makes things worth it.

Barnicles x

Kim said...

Your honesty is refreshing. Bloglandia is full of chipper stories and seldom are the posts are introspective as yours. My husband and I faced similar circumstances years ago. At the time it was scary and there was not a lot of support. We were told that we would fail and return shortly. To say it was uncomfortable is an understatement. Am pleased to say that not only have we prospered but have had a rich and beautiful life. None of which would have been possible if we had stayed within our comfort zone. A wise man once said, "Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid." Best of luck to you in the next chapter of your life.

marianne said...

Wishing you good luck!
I admire you for chasing your dreams and to not continue an easy paved path :)
I know you will do just fine.

Mia Bloom Designs said...

Thank you for this honest post. I wish you and your family all the best.

Joanne said...

Alisa...since meeting you at D. Downey's inspired, I have followed your blog(life) regularly and truely believe you are increible! I've learned a great deal from you, and think you are an amazing artist and person! Congratulations on pursuing your dreams and following your heart no matter how hard. It is a truely great soul that takes on that challenge!
I'll continue to follow you and your beautiful family, and keep you in my thoughts and prayers!!
Hugs!

Elaine said...

You know I think the world of you, Alisa, and am inspired by your creativity, integrity, and soul. I'm proud to have been your book editor and can't wait to see all you will accomplish in your new home! Wishing you tremendous good luck every day. Thanks for all you share. Don't let anyone get you down - your talent is immense! -- xo Elaine Lipson

Megan said...

Thank you Alisa for this post! This is pretty much exactly what I needed to read today. Thank you for sharing!

TanyaMac said...

I have to say Alisa - your honesty is so refreshing, its all too easy to sugar things up in blogland ;)

My husband and i left Ireland when Charlie was just four months old to set up a new life in England. Unsettling and tough as it was, the move has really worked out for us and i can safely say i've no regrets. Have faith and keep on dreaming ;)

Tanya

Rebecca said...

Thank you for posting such an honest story. You certainly encourage me to keep on keeping on with trying to obtain some goals. Some times I read other blogs of artists and their worlds sound so dreamy and perfect, it's good to know that you've had some positive moments along the way and also some stuggles in obtaining some goals and dreams. You are an amazing person and I am in awe of you that your able to be an artist, run a business and be such an incredible mother to Lucy (she is adorable by the way). I love following your blog and I love your art, good luck in your move and by the way I love love love your new studio. Take care from Edmonton, Alberta Canada

Sue said...

Beautifully said and oh so true! As you move into a new chapter in your life, may you be blessed continually the way you have blessed so many by sharing yourself with so many. To you and your beautiful family!!

Peaceful/Paisible said...

we send you plenty plenty positive thoughts, you'll do it !!!! much love to all the family from my little part of France

Jayme said...

Thank you for this, Alisa. It is so incredibly wonderful to hear someone state what most people don't - following your dreams can be more scary than romantic and it is certainly not as easy as people like to make it appear. Thank you for keeping it real!

Best of luck on the big move and congratulations on reaching your long awaited goal! I truly hope I will be able to attend one of your workshops in your new space (I live near Seattle, so it's actually do-able!) :)

Marie aka Grams said...

Well, you touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. What an honest appraisal, and a valuable addition to the community (all of them). Thanks for this post.

Dahlia said...

Deat Alisa,
Thanks you, I needed to hear this. My family and I are moving for the second time this year. Although it is just to another local city, within several miles apart, I was feeling really hopeless that my hopes and dreams will never begin to grow with the delay of having to move...AGAIN. But, perhaps this is just taking us where we really need to be for dreams to come true... Alisa, tank you for being so transparent with us, I truly appreciate your sincere devotion to your readers. Wishing you all the best and looking forward to the beautiful future that lies ahead of you and your sweet family!

connie said...

Sending positive thoughts your direction! Like my mother would always say to me... "nothing ventured, nothing gained" Wishing you all the best!

Tanja said...

Oh wow. I love the honesty of this post. I have been following your blog for a while now, and I also like browing your archives. I am just SO in awe of how you do things, how everything you create/do seems so aligned with your authenticity, how you juggle all things important. I love how this post make me feel so hopeful about what's possible. Thank you!!

Say It In Color said...

Wow, thanks for sharing your true heart!! I hear you and praise your bravery and hearts! Lucy will sure benefit from your wise thinking! I at 65 yrs am in a transition, downsizing from a full life of children, business, art, things attained...lots of stuff, and we are struggling with the changes that we too know must be made and are excited, even in the struggle, because I KNOW there is a PLAN in place....I am learning to TRUST along the way. My newly renovated garage studio 22x24 will be finished soon (larger art space and less house and yard!) and I am anticipating what it will become.....prayerfully! I LOVE THAT PROVERB you put!!! You have been one of my treasured inspirations this year!!! .....and will still touch base with classes when I get settled too!! BLESSINGS to you 3!!!

Kathryn Hansen said...

your post is like a welcomed breath of fresh air. it's easy in blog land to think everyone else's life both personally and creatively is so much easier than your own. This post is a wonderful reminder that everyones life ebbs and flows and with patience, determination, some struggles and more joys we end up building a life...hopefully a good one for most! not perfect but a really good one!

Your honesty and openness are much appreciated!!

Amber said...

Oh you are so right on with this post! The road to all that is really worthwhile isn't an easy one. If it were, we'd all be on it. Congratulations on your leap of faith! Like Kim, when my husband and I left Seattle for a rural, economically depressed area, we were told we'd fail and return. We haven't. It's been a journey, but so worth every single step. Best wishes to you and your family!

Kasey said...

This blog posts speaks to me in big ways.. I too have been a self employed artists for 5 years.. In 2 months we take the next big step in moving to a new bigger studio.. Scary and exciting . I totally understand what you are saying! I just bought a bracelet from the Lenny and Eva line that says " She took a leap of FAITH and found her wings on the way down" That reminds me of your situation too! Good Luck with the move!

teri said...

Yes yes yes. I own my own business, and when things are difficult for some friends and their jobs, they will tell me I'm lucky. They don't understand how much planning, risk-taking, anxiety, and work is involved. On the other hand, if doing something is what we're meant to do, then it's almost as if we have no choice but to go for it.

Anonymous said...

I so admire your work and your vision. Thank you for your willingness to be real. I pray that this move will be a blessing in your life as you have been a blessing to many. God will guide you as you journey through your life as a parent and as an artist...

elizabeth said...

Thank you! I'm just an echo of previous comments but wanted to chime in and tell you how very much it means to read such personal, honest writing. It is easy to feel like a failure when so many artist blogs never mention the delays, setbacks, worries, etc. and make it seem like everything is so easy. All the best to you and yours in this new adventure! I hope to one day travel down from Seattle to attend one of your workshops. :)

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for sharing this beautifully honest post with us all. It's so easy to look at someone's big changes and think it all magically happened for them somehow. But the truth of chasing your dreams is dedication, persistance, and sacrifice. Bless you and your family on your journey to your new home and the magnificient life that awaits you there.

Toni K said...

Thanks for sharing and keeping it real. It always looks so easy from the outside. I wish much success to you and your family.

ltwichell said...

It's easy to see your brilliance in your blog. That's why you are reading so many of your supporters' good wishes. But we don't become brilliant without other qualities: pluckiness, resilience, energy, determination, a giving nature, imagination, and a creative spirit. You have given me much happiness on cloudy days, and the universe will return the favor to you, I believe. Change is always terrifying but you can do this. It will work out.
.........and thank you.
ps. that Lucy is one lucky little girl to have you for a mom!

JoAnn said...

Thank you for this! I have to say this reminded me of something... My Mother has always hated hearing people say to us (her 3 daughters) that we are "lucky" or that "it must be nice." While we were blessed with an amazing family we were raised to work hard! We were taught that things don't always come easy and yes, you do have to put forth the effort and energy to make things happen in life. This post also reminds us that we are always learning and growing, becoming the people we are meant to be, piece by piece. Struggles, hard work, bad days and yes, GOOD days are all part of the plan! It certainly makes the reward that much sweeter! I'm sure Oregon is waiting for the 3 of you with OPEN arms ready to welcome you back Alisa!
We are all here cheering you on!

Jo Murray said...

Change can be inspiring... expect wonderful things to happen.

Chrissy said...

This is really wonderful and speaks straight to my heart. I, too, believe we have to try and live the life that is meant for us!
Best of luck and may all your dreams come true!
xxx

Erin said...

Good luck on the newest chapter of your life. Also, congrats on being brave enough to embrace change, even though it can be very stressful, scary and not what you expected. It is often well worth it all.

Joanne said...

ditto to all of the above -- thank you for such a beautiful honest blog post -- you are truly an inspiration to me in everything that you do -- good luck in your move -- how lucky is lucy to have two such wonderful parents --

Joanne said...

Wow...just wow! Your honesty was heartwarming and heart tugging all at the same time! For those of us who have regular 8 - 5 jobs and think that being an artist would be cool...the reality that its a lot of hard work and sometimes very scary may not always be apparent. You do make it look effortless! You are on the forefront of amazing things that will change you forever. Enjoy.

Ann said...

your words are honest. it is tough to move forward. i love the pic. you posted... your look speaks volumes.
every mother has been there!!!
wishing you the best.

Jo Owen said...

Beautifully written honest post from a beautiful creative lady with probably the most beautiful baby I've ever seen (apart from my own but I have to be biased on that).

I really wish you all well on your new venture and will think of your words when I think I'm having it tough.

Take care and best wishes
Joanne

siga said...

This is how it is... The blogs often showing the things from the beautiful side, which is great :)) Because people like You really inspire. We do know about the work, the motherhood, the obstacles, but still sometimes afraid to follow the heart call... And You did it! That is worth of admiration. And tells me to stop myself from having all kinds of excuses to do what i really want to do... Thank You very much for being there!

Ann Marie said...

I've been following your blog for a while now, but haven't commented. Today, I just had to. The words and emotions you shared in this post so very much match my own. In the past six months my life has been turned upside down by others and I am being forced to start a new life, build a new business, find a new home and have decided to leave my home state for a new one. Just like you, there are things that are bittersweet, and scary, but I'm excited too. Excited to start new and create the life that I am ment to live. Good luck to you and your family. I hope to visit your new studio some day and take a class or two.

Anonymous said...

Hey, I nominated your blog for the Versatile Blogger Award– More info can be found here: http://craftchick.wordpress.com/2012/06/18/a-thank-you-for-the-versatile-blogger-award/

dawn said...

Thank you for keeping it real, just makes me love you more. I love how much you inspire us while still raising your first little baby, what a wonderful job your doing at being a mom and artist.

Good luck on this new journey you will start and just know it will all work out in the end. You should be proud of yourself and hubby for all the hard work and patience you've had all these years and reaching your dreams.

Thank you for all you do here and share with us, it's a daily inspiration no matter what you share here.

I think your AMAZING so don't let anyone tell you otherwise!!
HUGS AND PRAYERS FOR ALL 3 OF YOU!!

DonnaL said...

I am encouraged by your post and so happy for you and your family. Things are sweeter when there is some sweat involved! The road isn't always smooth but that is what makes it interesting. Keep pursuing your dreams, may continue to Bless You.

HollyM said...

Yes, thank you for sharing. I feel a novice to blog land although it has been a few years but I had a comment once about how lovely a life I had. I thought I was being honest but didn't want to be always writing about the real life trials. It is good to do it sometimes though as we can connect as humans and not feel so lost.
I can ony imagine the tumult you've had with all the changes. We've made a few in our lives too.
Good luck with your move!

Carol B. said...

Thank you so much for sharing! Yes, sometimes it looks like your life is so perfect and beautiful, and mine is sooo not! Your honesty helps me to see that all is not perfect for anyone, but that with, as you say, hard work and patience, the life that we dream of is possible.
The Best to you and your family!

Jeans 'n Tshirt said...

Alisa and family! thank you for sharing the beautiful REAL moments and the Beautiful real life moments as well! It is hard to follow that that pulls so strong on your hearts! but be so proud that you havent told that voice to be quiet! That you have the courage to work together and see what happens - that is true life adventure and I am so glad to see it can be done!

it isnt good luck! its courage to you all! to continue to be who you are!

joojoo said...

ur such a strong woman ... good luck dear .

(:

Unknown said...

Thank you for a heart felt story.
May all your dreams come true for you and your little family.

Unknown said...

love your honesty....

Judith Westerfield said...

Alicia,
Your art celebrates spontaneity - seldom do we realize how much time, dedication, sweat and tears it takes to be spontaneous!

I do believe that this life called human is not about feeling good - it's about doing good.

I've followed your blog, taken your on-line workshops and attended your recent Create workshop. You've inspired me artistically.

You've touched my life and will continue to touch many many lives no matter where you live.

Unknown said...

you and your family are wonderful
my best very warm wishes and best of luck for your move!!!!
and thank you so much for your permanent inspiration and your wonderful teachings !!!!!

MoSa Studio Art said...

Thanks for sharing! I left everything & everyone behind to move from good ole Iowa to Germany, to be with the love of life. It has not been an easy journey, either. I am now struggling here with my art being accepted. To hear your struggles & honesty about your life & art makes me feel like it is just not me! Thanks !!!

Linda Kittmer said...

What a beautifully honest and heartfelt post. I admire your bravery and strength and I know Lucy will be better for it. Keep smiling. You are truly an inspiration of all of us!

Christy said...

What a great post! I really enjoyed this, it's so encouraging without being patronizing or condescending about the hard work of pursuing dreams.

Unknown said...

This post comes to me at the perfect time! Every single line, each picture and quote resonates with me.

All my best wishes for your next big step!

Love, Yash

P.S. You should write a creative bio filled with all your knowledge, struggles and hard work on the way to personal growth.

art.soul said...

"if your dreams don't scare you, they're not big enough"

that my moto, these days, while I'm on the edge to make a real change in my life and scared as hell but also VERY excited about the future.

I'm sure you'll reach your goals.

Mary said...

Thank you Alisa, for posting this. I think if we truly desire to live fully awake, alive to life and passion there may seem to be even more struggle (they stretch us), but in midst we experience a richer life. As I grow older I seem to encounter more struggle, but they grow and expand me, and life is fuller and richer for them. And, if we are honest with others and even ourselves none of us escape them. So do pretend to others and ourselves they don't exist, or do we enter them...

Grace and peace to you and yours as you continue on this marvelous part of your journey.

Kimkarlene said...

Hello Alisa, I received some spiritual/metaphysical guidance last Saturday -- which I will share with you: Always do what creates JOY for you -- Your thoughts are magnets, be upbeat, think only positive thoughts and you will draw more to you -- be more appreciative for everything you have and have received -- and last but not least... Everything will come at the perfect time...Focus on Joy!! Love your blog and style...wishing you much JOY!!!

LittleRe said...

What a beautiful post! As children, we are encouraged to follow our dreams, but as we grow up and try to achieve them they may not appear as quickly as we thought they would. Some just give up. For the rest of us, we persevere! Recently saw a quote that went something like this...we compare our behind the scenes with others highlight reels. Some look like they haven't worked a day to achieve their dreams and we get discouraged. Keep up the good WORK and I am excited to keep following your blog for updates on your highlight reel! :)

Becky Voth said...

Thank you for sharing all that with us! It does always seem that everything is perfect & so enchanting on artists blogs - like they don't want to share the hardships & soul searching they went through to get where they are today. It makes you think that they were "discovered" overnight & the ball went rolling from there!
I admire what you & your hubby are doing & of course, like many readers, are jealous! But as you say, it didn't happen overnight & there is no need to be jealous - just work harder to make my own dreams come true!
I'm sure you will all be so much happier in your new venture & I hope one day to come to your lovely studio & learn from you! Thanks & safe journey next week!! :) Becky

Valerie Brown said...

As others have mentioned, this post came at a perfect time for me. I'm at the scary part of "living the dream" of being a self employed artist (ie. not very much $$ coming in!). So, it was so helpful to read that there have been ups and downs in your and your husband's journey. Of course, I know that intellectually that this how it plays out for the majority, but when you only read about successes it sure can get you down!

I admire you, Alisa - partly for your work, your great e-courses, but mostly because of the all of the hard work you've put in (and continue to put in) to achieve your dream. Thanks for being honest and inspiring me even more!

All the best on your new adventure!

Anonymous said...

Alisa - So, I don't personally know you but I truly enjoy your blog. You've got great talent, style and I love your creative ideas! That being said, I live in Portland & look forward to having the chance to take one of your classes in-person! As you know, the Oregon Coast is a special place & you're very lucky to be returning to it. What a fun environment to raise a family.

I wish you the best with this transition. When in doubt reflect on these comments that have been shared with you. You have lots of supporters cheering you on!!! See you in class!!

Melody said...

Happy to know that I am not the only one feeling this way. Moving within an hour of you in a few weeks....what a ride this is. Thanks for the encouragement and honesty.

She Who Doodles said...

thanks for sharing. it sounds like your hard work is about to pay off. hoping to meet you in oregon.

Janet said...

Truer words could not be said. Its not all rainbows and diamonds, but we can chase the dream. Good luck with the move - not so easy moving a baby and all of your worldly belongings and saying goodbye to CA.

la.daridari said...

I wish your family the best future... the award for your courage

Julie Filatoff said...

Alisa, I had the pleasure of taking your "Beneath the Surface" class a few weeks ago at Create. Meeting you confirmed that you are real, wonderful human, just as I suspected. Although this transition is not without its stress, I believe it will be a good one for you and your family.

Hybrid J said...

Thank you for sharing the "haven't shared". You and you family have my utmost admiration and respect. Know that you have my best wishes to your new journey. Good luck all the way from Aussieland!

Unknown said...

This made my heart smile this morning. My husband and I are both from a small town on the Oregon coast. We moved to a much larger city in the Willamette Valley three years ago. It wasn't until after having our son that we realized how much we missed it all! For the first time I realized just how badly I missed my parents, my family and the smell of the ocean. I wanted my son to grow up in the huge Doug Firs and run through huckleberry bushes like I did growing up. We decided about a year and a half ago to start looking for jobs. It's been a really long frustrating journey, but my husband just found a job last week!

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